Looking to stay fit and active? Whether you’re keen on joining a gym, trying a fitness class, or just heading outdoors to move around, there are plenty of ways to look after your health and stay active in Brighton.

If you’re after a free and easy way to get moving outdoors, check out some of the public facilities nearby. There are plenty of walking, jogging, and cycling trails to explore. The Jordan River Trail is a gentle 8.7 kilometre route that starts at Andrew Street and takes about an hour and 50 minutes to walk. It’s mostly paved and great for all fitness levels. The Swan Park Trail runs for 1.4 kilometres along the Derwent River from the Jordan River Bridge towards Gagebrook, and it’s a lovely spot for birdwatching. Another top pick is the Old Beach Foreshore Trail, a two kilometre track from Jetty Road to Cassidy’s Bay with beautiful water views along the way.

Local parks and ovals also offer plenty of space to play sport or exercise at your own pace. Weily Park in Bridge­water is home to local cricket, athletics, and soccer clubs, with facilities like a cricket oval, soccer pitch, jump pits, and areas for discus, javelin, and shot put. At Ted Jeffries Memorial Park in Seymour Street at Brighton, you’ll have a bike circuit, skate park, half basketball court, and soccer field. Len­nox Park in Old Beach features tennis courts, cricket nets, and an oval, while Cris Fitzpatrick Park in Gagebrook has a multi-purpose court for bas­ketball and soccer, a skate park, bike circuit, pump track, and cricket pitch.

If gyms are more your style, there are several in the area including MBS Fitness, Zap Fitness, and Iron Jungle, all in Bridgewater (note that paid gym memberships are required). For something a bit different, dancing is a fun and social way to stay fit, and the Rhythmic Dance Centre in Brighton runs classes for kids of all ages. For a fun, social, low-impact sport, try your hand at bowls with the Brighton Bowls & Community Club. They’ll provide all the gear you need to get started.

Check out Embrace with Dani for a mindful approach to movement. Based in Old Beach, Dani has been teaching yoga and movement for over seven years, with classes focused on stretch and release, Pilates, and Yin Yoga. All are welcome. To find out more or book a class, contact Dani on 0400 020 519 or danielle.p.baker@hotmail.com.

Curious about combat sports? Brighton Fighting and Fitness is a local boxing club for anyone aged ten and up, catering to both amateur and professional boxers. Find them on Facebook under ‘Brighton Fighting and Fitness’ or call 0438 007 186. Meanwhile, Bugeido Shotokan Karate holds weekly training at the Brighton Memorial Hall every Thursday, with classes for ages 7-11 from 5pm-6pm, and juniors/seniors from 6pm-7:30pm.

Lastly, the BGH Breakers club represents Bridgewater, Gagebrook and Herdsmans Cove in a range of organised sports. If you’re keen to get involved or start a team, email cbghbreakers@gmail.com.

No matter your age or ability, there’s something nearby to help you get moving and feel great.